The first Primitive Methodist chapel in Kings Lynn opened in 1829 You can read about it here.
The second King’s Lynn Primitive Methodist chapel, a little way further north from its predecessor and on the other side of the road, dates from 1859. This elegant yellow brick building was built on the site of the nave of the church of St James. The remains of the ruined crossing are still in the backyard.
The architect was JA Hillam. Early English-style lancets in cement punctuate the yellow brick Dutch-style gable. Pevsner describes this as an Italianate fashion. He also tells us that the gallery inside has Corinthian iron columns.
There is an account by OO Britain of the laying of the foundation stone of this chapel on Wednesday August 25th 1858. Preachers were Rev Key of Rockland, JT Wigner, W Lift, who laid the stone and presented 20 sovereigns. After tea for 800 in the Stepney and Tabernacle school rooms, addresses came from T Thomas, R Howchin, TT Wigner, R Key and W Lift. The following day there was a procession and tea for children – plum pudding and roast beef.
On 9th September 1866 S Smith tells us it was reopened after extensive cleaning, staining, painting and varnishing. Speakers at the re-opening included Rev J Oscroft of Rochdale, (the minister who who first missioned Kings Lynn on 04/07/1821), W Wainwright (Lynn), S Smith and Messrs Lincoln, White and Daw. William Lift (circuit steward) chaired a public tea meeting.
In 2012 I played for a Sunday afternoon concert here with Caroline Sharpe’s Enchanted. The catering was memorable!
You can read more about Primitive Methodism in Kings Lynn here.
location: second chapel TF 622198
Reference
Primitive Methodist magazine November 1858 pp.686-687
Primitive Methodist magazine December 1866 page 754
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